Boston Celebrates: Pritchard Takes Home NBA Sixth Man Trophy!

Payton Pritchard’s stellar season coming off the Boston Celtics’ bench has culminated in him being named the 2025 NBA Sixth Man of the Year. His remarkable campaign saw him rewrite the record books for bench three-pointers, surpassing Wayne Ellington for the most in a single season. Pritchard’s sharpshooting was a consistent weapon, as he drained at least five three-pointers in an astounding 22 games, breaking Jayson Tatum’s previous Celtics record of 18.

Celtics President of Basketball Operations Brad Stevens lauded Pritchard’s dedication and team-first mentality. “Payton is one of the most dedicated players I’ve ever been around,” Stevens stated. “He truly loves the game and is committed to the work that goes into being great. In addition, he’s driven by winning and doing whatever it takes to help the team. Payton is a baller — and his teammates know what they are getting daily in terms of effort, care, and commitment. For him to be honored with the award named after the great John Havlicek is a credit to all he brings to our team.”

Pritchard now joins an elite group of Celtics legends to have won the Sixth Man of the Year award, including Kevin McHale, Bill Walton, and Malcolm Brogdon.

Statistically, the 27-year-old had a breakout year, achieving career-highs across the board with 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, while shooting an efficient 47.2 percent from the field and 40.7 percent from beyond the arc. His playing time also saw a significant increase, averaging a career-high 28.2 minutes per contest.

This recognition is a testament to Pritchard’s perseverance. Despite requesting a trade in the 2022-23 season due to limited playing time, the Celtics showed their faith in him by signing him to a four-year, $30 million extension before the 2023-24 season – a decision that has clearly paid dividends.

Pritchard’s impact isn’t limited to the regular season. He had several memorable moments during the Celtics’ 2024 championship run, including a spectacular buzzer-beating half-court shot in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. He has carried that momentum into the current playoffs, highlighted by a 19-point performance in Boston’s Game 1 victory against the Orlando Magic. Celtics fans in Lagos and around the world will be eager to see Pritchard continue his stellar play as they face the Magic in Game 2 at TD Garden tonight.